This week’s #FirstFreedomFive shows how threats to religious freedom come in many forms—bullets, bureaucracy, and black-box disappearances.
From Washington to Punjab to Tibet, here are the top five stories you need to know.
1
Israeli Embassy Staff Killed in Washington D.C.
Two Israeli embassy staffers were shot and killed outside the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C., after attending a humanitarian event. Witnesses say the attacker shouted antisemitic and pro-Palestinian slogans. Authorities are investigating the incident as a hate crime. U.S. and Israeli leaders condemned the violence, urging stronger protection for religious communities.
2
Ahmadi Muslim Doctor Killed in Pakistan Amid Rising Faith-Based Violence
Dr. Sheikh Mahmood, an Ahmadi Muslim doctor, was shot and killed while on duty at a hospital in Punjab. Renowned for his medical expertise and humanitarian work, he had faced years of threats and harassment from anti-Ahmadi extremists, previously forcing him to resign under pressure. His murder marks the third faith-based killing of an Ahmadi Muslim in Pakistan within a month. The Ahmadiyya community remains a frequent target of violent persecution, as concerns grow over escalating religious intolerance in the country.
3
Colorado — Christian Camp Challenges New Rule on Gender-Based Facility Access
A Christian summer camp in Colorado is challenging a new state policy requiring children’s camps to allow access to bathrooms, changing areas, and sleeping quarters based on gender identity.
The camp, named IdRaHaJe—short for “I’d Rather Have Jesus”—says the rule violates its religious beliefs and could force it to shut down. In operation since 1948, it argues the policy denies it the freedom to operate according to its faith.
4
Illinois Man Sentenced for Hate Crime Murder of 6-Year-Old Palestinian-American Boy
An Illinois man has been sentenced to 53 years in prison for the 2023 hate crime murder of 6-year-old Wadea Al-Fayoume—who was stabbed 26 times—and the attempted murder of the child’s mother. The attack, carried out shortly after the outbreak of the Israel-Gaza war, was fueled by anti-Muslim hatred, according to prosecutors. The case has shocked the nation and become a disturbing symbol of rising Islamophobia in the U.S. Community leaders and civil rights advocates are urging greater efforts to combat hate-fueled violence and protect vulnerable communities.
5
30 Years Since Disappearance of Tibetan Spiritual Leader
This week marks 30 years since the disappearance of Gedhun Choekyi Nyima, the 11th Panchen Lama, who was taken by Chinese authorities at age 6 and has not been seen since. Despite claims that he is “living a normal life,” his continued absence has become a powerful symbol of China’s suppression of Tibetan Buddhism. International voices are once again calling for proof of life and his immediate release.
Good News Bonus
Pakistan — New Law Aims to Protect Religious Minorities
Pakistan’s parliament recently passed the National Commission for Minority Rights Bill, establishing a new body to safeguard the rights of religious minorities in the country. The bill affirms Pakistan’s commitment to promoting religious diversity and protecting the cultural and religious freedoms guaranteed under its 1973 Constitution.
The law follows the recent murder of Ahmadi Muslim doctor Sheikh Mahmood, underscoring the urgent need for stronger protections. The commission aims to ensure that minorities can freely practice, express, and develop their cultural and religious identities—marking a significant step toward addressing ongoing concerns over discrimination in the republic.
This week was particularly brutal.
We’d love to hear more good news.
Drop a comment with stories from your communities—acts of courage, interfaith dialogue, or people standing up for those they disagree with.
Let’s remind each other what this work is for. 🌍☮️